Reviews

Driving Impression

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Despite having 300 horsepower beneath its hood, a Maxima isn’t likely to deliver many driving thrills to enthusiasts. The V6/CVT combination doesn’t constitute the most refined powertrain, either.

For most drivers, though, the Maxima accelerates with suitable swiftness, while emitting more gruffness than expected. Pushing harder than usual on the gas pedal may be needed when accelerating, but the specially-tuned transmission yields a more spirited experience than most CVTs can deliver. Sport mode helps, and when D-Step logic is selected, the preset ratios arrive in a delectably smooth sequence.

Helped by surprisingly high-effort steering, a Maxima feels markedly more nimble than typical rivals like Toyota’s Avalon. Certainly, its sense of sportiness transcends that of most big sedans. Even when breezing along curvy roads, Nissan’s top sedan feels composed and confident. Wandering on straightaways seldom occurs, courtesy of great on-center tracking capability.

Moderate torque steer might be felt, but only when accelerating hard. Electric power steering delivers almost no feedback to the driver, but the thick-rimmed, flat-bottom steering wheel is an unexpected delight.

Still, ride comfort is this sedan’s main attraction. With standard 18-inch wheels, smoothness approaches luxury level. Even in SR trim with 19-inch tires and stiffer shock absorbers, the ride doesn’t become excessively firm.

Engine noise is reasonably muffled, but other sounds entering the cabin seem inappropriate for a car in this price league.

Thriftier than many full-size sedans, the Maxima is EPA-rated at 21/30 mpg City/Highway, or 25 mpg Combined. Premium gasoline is needed.

Walk Around

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Styling might not please everyone. More than most, though, Nissan’s Maxima stands out from the big-sedan pack. Daring and dramatic, if not wholly cohesive, the biggest Nissan four-door lacks the cleanly finished look of a Chevrolet Impala, but resembles no other full-size sedan. No design elements are shared with the mechanically-related Nissan Altima.

The freshly-revised grille does present a cleaner appearance. Viewed from the front, the roof appears to float above the vehicle, helped by black pillars. A fine chrome line runs just below the windows, striving to conceal the Maxima’s girth. On the whole, the Maxima favors voluptuous curves over a svelte tone. SR sedans flaunt more prominent sporty touches, including a rear spoiler.

Interior Overview

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Top models are luxurious.Front occupants can savor comfortably supportive seats and a lavish aura.

The Maxima seats four and is even better for two. It has a low roofline that makes the rear bench feel tight. Taller riders may find the roofline impedes entry and exit. The two outboard rear passengers drop into wide, bucket-like seats. A center position is provided, but it’s not intended to be used often and it’s not comfortable. Rear passengers in the Nissan Altima have more space.

Fitted with an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, the dashboard cants assertively toward the driver. The tall center console constricts knee space more than in most large sedans.

Trunk volume is a moderate 14.3 cubic feet, versus 15.4 for the Altima.

Summary

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Regardless of trim levels, the Maxima delivers an upscale feel. In both layout and materials quality, but not in back-seat space, Nissan’s full-size sedan ranks above the midsize Altima. As far as design goes, not many large four-doors can be called daring or dramatic. Altogether, Maxima promises good value for its price.

Driving impressions by The Car Connection. James M. Flammang contributed to this report.